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Renewing Joy

Playing with my nieces when they were young brought me joy.
When we hear joy, we might think of Christmas, Joy to the World, excitement of presents. But not God’s gracious acceptance, forgiveness of sins, or change of life through faith each and every day.
We Lutherans may know God’s grace better than anyone else but have difficulty showing it on our faces. Lent is an invitation to renew our faith through joy and show it through our daily actions.
What brings you joy? How do you show it? Did you ever wonder what brings joy to God? God rejoices when we appreciate God’s gifts, love one another, and express our worship to God.
Word
The story of Jesus about a Father and his two sons describes numerous aspects of our relationship with God. One of them is joy.
When the lost son returns, his Father runs to welcome and kiss him. And the father wants to share his joy, by giving a party for everyone, and talking to his older son who feels slighted.
“The father said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. But we had to celebrate and rejoice, because this brother of yours was dead and has come to life ...’” (Luke 15:31-32)
Jesus told this story to show that God remains joyful. Because disappointment, abandonment and even our anger cannot change how God feels about us. But what joy when we return to God for forgiveness, and join the celebration!
Connection
Is your joy conditional and tied to circumstances? Or is it the result of living with appreciation of God’s gifts?
God’s love for me, and my worship of God -- connect those two, and you’ll have real joy. Regardless of circumstances. It’s simple, available to everyone, and a better gift than even Christmas can bring. God wants everyone to share in joy.
Message
The Good News is: God is overjoyed over any one who comes home. According to Jesus, we are all God’s children, whether righteous or sinner. And God doesn’t want anyone miss out on his love and joy. So God’s grace belongs to all.
Jesus says to you: Renew your joy this Lent. I suffered and died to give you the joy of Easter. That joy is for everyone, especially those who are down in life. Bring joy to God by inviting others and celebrating the gift of love together.

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